These are the darkest days of the year. Not only in the regard that we have less daylight just before winter solstice, but the darkness of the world tends to creep in this time of year. For millions of people Christmas is not “the most wonderful time of the year.”

Between shopping for gifts, writing and mailing Christmas cards, decorating, and visiting with family, anxieties tend to be at an all time high. Many people experience pain this time of year because of loved ones who are no longer with us or through feuds within their families. This is a season that was intended to be marked with peace and love, not stress and grudges. Sin can enter our lives at any time, and Satan loves the opportunity to shift the focus of what our Christian faith is centered on.

For this second week of Advent, let’s focus on forgiveness and the recognition of our need for a Savior. As God loves us and forgives us for our sins, let’s forgive the people we’ve been wronged by. Let us rejoice in the coming of our Lord, the one who frees us from our sin, making our hearts white as the snow falling outside.

If you have an Advent wreath or even just candles, the light can help remind us of the light of the world (Jesus) who came to save us all, especially during these darkest days of the year.

Advent Week Two